Islamabad: Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces and Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, has claimed that the country received “divine help” during its military confrontation with India in May 2025. Speaking at the National Ulema Conference on December 10, Munir asserted that this spiritual assistance was palpable during the intense fighting that followed Indian strikes.
Context: Operation Sindoor
The conflict, which erupted on May 7, 2025, was triggered by India’s Operation Sindoor. This mission was a retaliatory strike following the Pahalgam attack on April 22, where 26 civilians were killed.
- The Conflict: India targeted nine terror infrastructure sites across the Line of Control and deeper into Pakistan, including Bahawalpur and Punjab province.
- Retaliation: Pakistan responded with a counter-operation dubbed Bunyanum Marsoos, involving heavy shelling in Poonch and drone warfare.
- Resolution: Hostilities halted on May 10, 2025, after a ceasefire agreement was reached between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both nations.
Religious Narrative and National Status
In his address, Munir used heavy religious symbolism, drawing parallels between the modern Pakistani state and the first Islamic state established by the Prophet. He highlighted Pakistan’s “special status” among the 57 Islamic nations.
“God gave us the honour of being the protectors of Haramain Sharifain (Makkah and Madina),” Munir stated, referring to the historical role of Pakistani security forces in Saudi Arabia.
Warnings to Afghanistan and the TTP
Beyond the conflict with India, Munir issued a stern ultimatum to the Afghan Taliban regarding the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
- Infiltration: He alleged that 70% of TTP militants entering Pakistan are Afghan nationals.
- The Ultimatum: He demanded that the Kabul regime choose between its relationship with Pakistan or its support for the TTP.
- Authority on Jihad: Munir emphasized that in an Islamic state, the authority to declare jihad rests solely with the government, warning against unauthorized fatwas issued by militant groups.